Question 1: Define 'urbanization'.

Answer: The process by which an increasing proportion of a population lives in cities and urban areas.

Question 2: What is 'suburbanization'?

Answer: The process of population movement from city centers to suburban areas on the outskirts of cities.

Question 3: Explain the term 'urban sprawl'.

Answer: The uncontrolled expansion of urban areas into surrounding rural land.

Question 4: What is 'megacity'? Provide an example from the US.

Answer: A very large city with a population over 10 million; example: New York City.

Question 5: Define 'urban decay' and give an example in the US.

Answer: The process where parts of a city decline in social and economic terms; example: parts of Detroit.

Question 1: Which city is known as the largest metropolitan area in the US?

Answer: New York City

Question 2: Name two factors that have contributed to urban growth in Houston, Texas.

Answer: Economic opportunities in the energy sector and availability of land for expansion.

Question 3: What demographic trend has most driven urbanization in the US over the past 50 years?

Answer: Population growth and migration from rural areas.

Question 4: Describe one environmental issue associated with urbanization in Los Angeles.

Answer: Air pollution due to vehicle emissions and industrial activity.

Question 5: Identify one challenge faced by urban planners in New York City.

Answer: Managing housing affordability and high population density.

Question 1: Based on the case study of Houston, identify two major impacts of rapid urbanization on the city's infrastructure.

Answer: Increased traffic congestion and strain on public services such as water supply and waste management.

Question 2: Analyze how Houston's geographical location has influenced its urban development.

Answer: Houston's proximity to energy resources and a flat landscape have facilitated expansion, attracting industries and residents.

Question 3: Discuss one environmental challenge Houston faces due to urbanization, citing specific data or facts.

Answer: Flooding during heavy rainfall, with Houston experiencing over 50 significant flood events since 2000, partly due to urban sprawl and inadequate drainage.

Question 4: Evaluate the effectiveness of Houston’s urban planning strategies in managing growth.

Answer: Strategies like expanding public transportation and implementing zoning laws have helped manage growth, but challenges such as traffic congestion persist.

Question 1: Explain why suburban areas around US cities have expanded rapidly over the last 30 years.

Answer: Due to the desire for larger homes, lower land costs, and improved transportation allowing commuting, leading to urban sprawl.

Question 2: Analyse the causes of urban decay in some parts of Detroit, Michigan.

Answer: Decline in manufacturing industries, depopulation, economic decline, and inadequate investment have led to urban decay, with many buildings abandoned and unemployment high.

Question 3: Explain how technological advancements have influenced urban growth in US cities.

Answer: Advances such as the development of the internet and transportation infrastructure have facilitated decentralization, attracting businesses and residents to suburbs.

Question 1: To what extent have urban planning strategies been successful in managing traffic congestion in New York City?

Answer: Urban planning strategies such as congestion charging, expansion of public transport, and traffic management have alleviated some congestion; however, high demand and limited road space continue to pose challenges, indicating partial success.

Question 2: Evaluate the environmental impacts of urbanization in US megacities and suggest sustainable solutions.

Answer: Urbanization has led to pollution, habitat loss, and increased carbon emissions. Sustainable solutions include promoting green spaces, sustainable transport, and stricter environmental regulations to minimize these impacts.